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Habitat Suitability Index (HSI) derived from Species Distribution Model (SDM) has been used to infer or predict local demographic properties such as abundance for many species. Across species studied, HSI has either been presented as a poor predictor of abundance or as a predictor of potential rather than realized abundance. The main explanation of the lack of relationship between HSI and abundance is that the local abundance of a species varies in time due to various ecological processes that are not integrated into correlative SDM. To better understand the HSI-abundance relationship, in addition to the study of the association between HSI and mean abundance, we explored its variation over time. We used data from 10-years monitoring of a Houbara bustard (Chlamydotis undulata undulata) population in Morocco. From various occurrence data we modelled the HSI. From (independent) count data we calculated four local abundance indices: mean abundance, maximum abundance, the temporal trend of abundance and the coefficient of variation of abundance over the study period. We explored the relationship between HSI and abundance indices using linear, polynomial and quantile regressions. We found a triangular relationship between local abundance (mean and maximum) and HSI, indicating that the upper limit of mean and maximum abundance increased with HSI. Our results also indicate that sites with the highest HSI were associated with least variation in local abundance, the highest variation being observed at intermediate HSI. Our results provide new empirical evidence supporting the generalization of the triangular relationship between HSI and abundance. Overall, our results support the hypothesis that HSI obtained from SDMs can reflect the local abundance potentialities of a species and emphasize the importance of investigating this relationship using temporal variation in abundance.

Although captive breeding programs are valuable for conservation, they have been shown to be associated with genetic changes, such as adaptation to captivity or inbreeding. In addition, reproductive performance is strongly age-dependent in most animal species. These mechanisms that potentially impact reproduction have often been studied separately, while their interactions have rarely been addressed. In this study, using a large dataset of nine male and female reproductive parameters measured for 12,295 captive houbara bustards (Chlamydotis undulata undulata) over 24 years, we investigated the relative and interactive effects of age, inbreeding and number of generations in captivity on reproduction. We clearly identified (1) senescence patterns in all parameters studied; (2) negative effects of inbreeding on sperm characteristics, display behavior, egg weight, egg volume and hatching probability; and (3) changes in phenotypic values for seven parameters according to number of generations in captivity. However, the effect sizes associated with age were substantially greater than those associated with inbreeding and number of generations in captivity. Beyond the independent effects of these three factors on reproductive parameters, the results highlighted their interactive effects and thus the importance of integrating them in the design of genetic management plans for conservation breeding programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Asian Houbara is vulnerable species, the population of which is dwindling. Its protection must be prioritized in conservation programs. In this study, maximum entropy models were developed in four seasons to evaluate habitat suitability and factors affecting Asian Houbara in the Center and East Iran. Environmental variables used in modeling and evaluating the niche consisted of 24 environmental and climate variables for Gharetapeh hunting prohibited region and 36 environmental and climate variables for Petregan protected area. Also, seasonal overlap area was obtained using the ENM TOOLS software. The results showed that the most important factors affecting habitat suitability of the Asian Houbara in all seasons included the ratio of distance to the type of Artemisia sieberi-Zygophyllum eurypterum, distance to the slope 2-5%, distance to the type of Seidlitzia rosmarinus in the Gharetapeh hunting prohibited region, distance to the type of Artemisia aucheri, distance to the land passion, and distance to the dry land farming in the Petregan region. In summer and fall-winter, the most suitable habitat is Gharetapeh but is Petergan during fall-winter. There is maximum overlap in fall and winter, and the least overlap in the spring in these areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For migratory species, the success of population reintroduction or reinforcement through captive-bred released individuals depends on survivors undertaking appropriate migrations. We assess whether captive-bred Asian Houbara Chlamydotis macqueenii from a breeding programme established with locally sourced individuals and released into suitable habitat during spring or summer undertake similar migrations to those of wild birds. Using satellite telemetry, we compare the migrations of 29 captive-bred juveniles, 10 wild juveniles and 39 wild adults (including three birds first tracked as juveniles), examining migratory propensity (proportion migrating), timing, direction, stopover duration and frequency, efficiency (route deviation), and wintering and breeding season locations. Captive-bred birds initiated autumn migration an average of 20.6 (±4.6 se) days later and wintered 470.8 km (±76.4) closer to the breeding grounds, mainly in Turkmenistan, northern Iran and Afghanistan, than wild birds, which migrated 1217.8 km (±76.4), predominantly wintering in southern Iran and Pakistan (juveniles and adults were similar). Wintering locations of four surviving captive-bred birds were similar in subsequent years (median distance to first wintering site = 70.8 km, range 6.56-221.6 km), suggesting that individual captive-bred birds (but not necessarily their progeny) remain faithful to their first wintering latitude. The migratory performance of captive-bred birds was otherwise similar to that of wild juveniles. Although the long-term fitness consequences for captive-bred birds establishing wintering sites at the northern edge of those occupied by wild birds remain to be quantified, it is clear that the pattern of wild migrations established by long-term selection is not replicated. If the shorter migration distance of young captive-bred birds has a physiological rather than a genetic basis, then their progeny may still exhibit wild-type migration. However, as there is a considerable genetic component to migration, captive breeding management must respect migratory population structure as well as natal and release-site fidelity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infectious diseases can be serious threats for the success of reinforcement programmes of endangered species. Houbara Bustard species ( Chlamydotis undulata and Chlamydotis macqueenii), whose populations declined in the last decades, have been captive-bred for conservation purposes for more than 15 years in North Africa and the Middle East. Field observations show that pox disease, caused by avipoxviruses ( APV), regularly emerges in conservation projects of Houbara Bustard, despite a very strict implementation of both vaccination and biosecurity. Data collected from captive flocks of Houbara Bustard in Morocco from 2006 through 2013 and in the United Arab Emirates from 2011 through 2013 were analysed, and molecular investigations were carried out to define the virus strains involved. Pox cases ( n = 2311) were observed during more than half of the year (88% of the months in Morocco, 54% in the United Arab Emirates). Monthly morbidity rates showed strong variations across the time periods considered, species and study sites: Four outbreaks were described during the study period on both sites. Molecular typing revealed that infections were mostly due to canarypox-like viruses in Morocco while fowlpox-like viruses were predominant in the United Arab Emirates. This study highlights that APV remain a major threat to consider in bird conservation initiatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Increasing knowledge of post-release survival and habitat requirements of translocated animals is critical to improve success of conservation programs. We estimated survival of reintroduced captive-bred Asian houbara bustards ( Chlamydotis macqueenii) in reserves of western United Arab Emirates where plantations exist as supplementary feeding sites. We explored factors influencing short- (3 months after release) and long-term (tri-monthly periods after third month of release) survival rates of released birds. We modeled life histories of individually tracked houbara using Program MARK. Mean short-term survival probability (0.76 ± 0.14 SD) was lower than mean long-term survival (0.86 ± 0.03 SD), and observed group size and the age of released birds positively correlated with short-term survival. We hypothesize that higher quality habitat (plantations) affected survival; larger groups occurred in plantations and older birds might be better able to maintain access to plantations. Long-term survival was negatively influenced by subsequent release events. Releasing more individuals increases local houbara density. This may lead to food depletion, increase in density-dependent mechanisms between individuals, or both. Short- and long-term survival rates suggest that food availability at the release sites, together with intraspecific interactions, may influence survival of newly released and established individuals. To improve the management of translocated animals, the impact of managed food resources should be quantified to assess how it might affect population vital rates. © 2016 The Wildlife Society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Landscape-scale habitat and land use influences on Asian Houbara Chlamydotis macqueenii (IUCN Vulnerable) remain unstudied, while estimating numbers of this cryptic, low-density, over-hunted species is challenging. In spring 2013, male houbara were recorded at 231 point counts, conducted twice, across a gradient of sheep density and shrub assemblages within 14,300 km of the Kyzylkum Desert, Uzbekistan. Four sets of models related male abundance to: (1) vegetation structure (shrub height and substrate); (2) shrub assemblage; (3) shrub species composition (multidimensional scaling); (4) remote-sensed derived land cover (GLOBCOVER, 4 variables). Each set also incorporated measures of landscape rugosity and sheep density. For each set, multi-model inference was applied to generalised linear mixed models of visit-specific counts that included important detectability covariates and point ID as random effects. Vegetation structure received strongest support, followed by shrub species composition and shrub assemblage, with weakest support for the GLOBCOVER model set. Male houbara numbers were greater with lower mean shrub height, more gravel and flatter surfaces, but were unaffected by sheep density. Male density (mean 0.14 km) estimated by distance analysis differed substantially among shrub assemblages, being highest in vegetation dominated by Salsola rigida, high in areas of S. arbuscula and Astragalus, respectively, lower in Artemisia and lowest in Calligonum. The study area was estimated to hold 1824 males (CI 1645-2030). The spatial distribution of relative male houbara abundance, predicted from vegetation structure models, had the strongest correspondence with observed numbers in both model calibration and the subsequent year's data. We found no effect of pastoralism on male distribution, but potential effects on nesting females are unknown. Density differences among shrub communities suggest extrapolation to estimate country- or range-wide population size must take into account vegetation composition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we apply a dynamic modelling approach to analyse the habitat loss of the Canarian houbara bustard ( Chlamydotis undulata fuerteventurae). This tool allows us to assess the effects of the socio-economic and environmental interactions on the factors threatening the habitat and to carry out a prospective analysis. The results show a potential habitat loss of around 13 % during the period 1996-2011, the land uptake and increase in new roads and tracks being the factors contributing most. After model testing, a set of scenarios was explored. Under the business as usual (BAU) scenario, around 20 % of the habitat would be lost by the end of the period considered (2012-2025). The impact of the economic growth scenario on the habitat would mean an additional loss of around 21 % with respect to BAU, whereas under the recession scenario, the loss might be around 6.5 % lower than BAU. The policy of restoration of gavias-traditional farming systems-would suppose an additional loss of almost 6 %, relative to BAU. If this policy took place under economic growth conditions, it might mean an additional loss of almost 28 % relative to BAU. These results point to the existence of a potential trade-off between the recuperation of ecosystem services offered by restored gavias and the conservation of the houbara habitat, which must be addressed within the management processes, as well as to the need for compensatory measures to guarantee the conservation goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Asian Houbara Chlamydotis macqueenii numbers are declining as a result of unsustainable levels of hunting and poaching, with the main conservation response being population reinforcement through the release of captive-bred birds. We assessed the contribution of captive breeding to the species' conservation by examining the fates of 65 captive-bred birds fitted with satellite transmitters and released during spring (March-May) and autumn (August) into breeding habitat in Uzbekistan. Of the released birds, 58.5% survived to October, the month favoured by Emirati hunters in Uzbekistan, but only 10.8% of those released survived the winter to return as subadults next spring. To mitigate and compensate for the loss of wild adults to hunting, the number of released birds needs to be an order of magnitude higher than hunting quotas (with a release of between 1640 and 1920 required for a hypothetical quota of 200), indicating that releases may be costly and do not remove the need for a biologically determined sustainable hunting quota. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In mating systems where sexual selection is intense, providing information on identity and quality to congeners may strongly influence reproductive success. In the lekking North African houbara bustard, Chlamydotis undulata undulata , males perform a spectacular courtship that includes highly visible displays and low-frequency vocalizations called booms. Booms are individualized and may play a role in individual recognition. However, this hypothesis is valid only if boom parameters are fixed phenotypes that do not change over time. It is also possible that they convey information about male quality. Using captive birds, we investigated whether the characteristics of booms vary over time, and whether they are related to physiological, physical and behavioural traits of the males. We showed that booming calls varied over the breeding season and that the males producing the lowest frequency booms were the heaviest and displayed the most. Using playback experiments in the field, we tested whether wild males use the frequency of rival booms as an indicator of their opponent's condition. We found that males' behavioural responses were significantly different according to the frequency of the signals played back. Males responded to booms simulating heavier intruders (lower frequency), which presumably represented a bigger threat, by increasing the duration of their running phase and by decreasing the duration of their booming phase, potentially bluffing on their own condition. Thus, booms convey information on male quality rather than identity, and are key acoustic signals in the agonistic relationships between lekking males. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For endangered species that are hunted, the establishment of mixed conservation areas including both hunting zones and sanctuaries to complement translocation actions (i.e. reinforcement) can improve both hunting yields and population sustainability. However, the effects of this type of management on the demography of the exploited species are not well understood. We used multi-event capture-recapture modelling in a population of captive-bred houbara bustards C hlamydotis undulata translocated into a mixed conservation area in Morocco. The specific management practice of our system (hunting regime varying in time and space) led to a quasi-experimental situation that allowed the differentiation of 'natural' from 'hunting-induced' mortality and movement between areas. The analysis uncovered strong asymmetries in both movement and survival that were not only due to direct hunting effects. Firstly, movement probabilities were higher from the sanctuary to the hunting areas than vice versa, even in years without hunting. Secondly, in addition to a direct effect of hunting on mortality in hunting areas, our results uncovered permanent differences in both areas (even outside the hunting period). Overall, our results were consistent with predictions under a source-sink dynamic model but illustrated that mixed conservation areas should not merely be treated as homogeneous systems with spatially heterogeneous hunting pressure but rather as fully heterogeneous systems. The patterns observed may be related to (1) the choice and design of hunting and sanctuary areas by managers, which might not be neutral with respect to habitat quality, or (2) indirect consequences of hunting via an effect on local growth rate and density. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Do all traits within an organism age for the same reason? Evolutionary theories of aging share a common assumption: the strength of natural selection declines with age. A corollary is that additive genetic variance should increase with age. However, not all senescent traits display such increases suggesting that other mechanisms may be at play. Using longitudinal data collected from more than 5400 houbara bustards (Chlamydotis undulata) with an exhaustive recorded pedigree, we investigated the genetics of aging in one female reproductive trait (egg production) and three male reproductive traits (courtship display rate, ejaculate size and sperm viability), that display senescence at the phenotypic level. Animal models revealed an increase in additive genetic variance with age for courtship display rate and egg production but an unexpected absence of increased additive genetic variance for ejaculate size and no additive genetic variance for sperm viability. Our results suggest that the mechanisms behind the senescence of some traits are linked with a change in genetic expression, whereas for some other traits, aging may result from the constraints associated with physiological wear and tear on the organism throughout the life of the individual. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A high immediate mortality rate of released animals is an important cause of translocation failure ('release cost'). Post-release dispersal (i.e. the movements from the release site to the first breeding site) has recently been identified as another source of local translocation failure. In spite of their potential effects on conservation program outcomes, little is known about the quantitative effects of these two sources of translocation failure and their interactions with environmental factors and management designs., Based on long-term monitoring data of captive-bred North African houbara bustards Chlamydotis undulata undulata (hereafter, houbara) over large spatial scales, we investigated the relative effects of release (e.g. release group size, period of release), individual (e.g. sex and body condition) and meteorological (e.g. temperature and rainfall) conditions on post-release survival ( n = 957 individuals) and dispersal ( n = 436 individuals)., We found that (i) rainfall and ambient air temperature had, respectively, a negative and a positive effect on houbara post-release dispersal distance; (ii) in interaction with the release period, harsh meteorological conditions had negative impact on the survival of houbara; (iii) density-dependent processes influenced the pattern of departure from the release site; and (iv) post-release dispersal distance was male-biased, as natal dispersal of wild birds (although the dispersal patterns and movements may be influenced by different processes in captive-bred and in wild birds)., Synthesis and applications. Our results demonstrate that post-release dispersal and mortality costs in translocated species may be mediated by meteorological factors, which in turn can be buffered by the release method. As the consequences of translocation programs on population dynamics depend primarily upon release costs and colonization process, we suggest that their potential interactions with meteorological conditions must be carefully addressed in future programs (i) through monitoring of short-term post-release mortality to understand its link with environmental conditions, (ii) by carefully choosing the season of release to minimize exposition of inexperienced individuals to harsh conditions and (iii) by generalizing the use of long-term weather forecast to adapt release effort and staggering releases over several years to buffer meteorological effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Selection pressures acting on both intrasexual competition and intersexual relationships may lead to the emphasis of individual variation and might thus lead to the expression of individual signature. This is particularly true in lek mating systems, where providing information on identity and/or quality to potential mates or congeners of the same sex can be essential for individuals to optimize their reproductive success. Visual and acoustic signals produced during the courtship of the lekking North African Houbara bustard ( Chlamydotis undulata undulata), based on field data from wild birds, are investigated here for the first time. Results show that the vocal signals, called booms, are characterized by a very low frequency, a rare phenomenon in birds which should allow booms to propagate over long distances. Results also show that both visual and acoustic signals are individualized and stereotyped between males. Using three methods of analysis, we highlight the acoustic parameters likely to support vocal individual signature and show that such information mainly relies on frequency parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The viability and hatchability of Houbara bustard (Chlamydotis undulata) embryos were investigated in a surrogate (chicken) albumen and eggshell system. Egg yolk including embryos were separated from freshly laid Houbara bustard eggs, and cultured in albumen from chicken and Houbara, respectively. The viability of Houbara embryos after day 4 in the same sized chicken eggshell was 76.9% and 61.1% in chicken and Houbara albumen, respectively. The entire content (egg yolk with embryo and the surrogate albumen) were then transferred on day 4 into an eggshell of a larger double yolk chicken egg, and incubated for a further 19 days. On day 14, the viability of Houbara embryo in the surrogate Houbara and chicken albumen were 27.3%, and 57.1%, respectively. Two Houbara chicks hatched successfully from the chicken albumen (7.7%), while one hatched from the Houbara albumen (5.6%). The results showed that Houbara embryo could develop to hatching in chicken albumen and eggshell. This technology will provide a tool to hatch damaged eggs as well as soft-shelled egg of endangered wild birds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In light of widespread declines of houbara bustard Chlamydotis macqueenii populations across its extant range, captive breeding has emerged as a viable option for regenerating viable populations of houbaras in addition to limiting hunting pressure, habitat management and amelioration of predation pressure. Although reintroductions of captive-bred houbaras have been carried out in many regions in recent years, information on differences in ranging behavior and habitat selection between captive-bred and wild-born houbaras is lacking. In this study, we utilized radiotelemetry data spanning 13 years to assess differences in home range use and habitat selection by houbara bustards in the Mahazat as-Sayd reserve in Saudi Arabia. The mean (±standard error of the estimate) annual home range size, estimated using the Kernel density method, was 307.76 ± 15.91 km2, and did not differ significantly between genders. Annual home ranges of wild-born houbaras were however larger than those of their captive-born counterparts (wild-born: 423.77 ± 62.66 km2, captive-bred: 299.31 ± 16.39 km2). Rainy season home ranges were the largest (279.29 ± 27.75 km2) followed by winter home ranges (245.79 ± 19.19 km2) and summer home ranges (110.51 ± 8.91 km2) indicating larger-scale movements of houbaras when forage was available. Seasonal home ranges did not differ significantly between wild-born or captive-bred houbaras. Analysis of habitat selection patterns using the distance-based method revealed consistent patterns of habitat preferences across years and seasons and between genders, ages and whether the bird was captive-bred or wild-born. Results indicate that scrub forms the most preferred habitat for houbaras, and should be conserved for the population welfare of the houbara in Saudi Arabia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The North African houbara bustard (Chlamydotis undulata undulata) is a medium-sized steppeland bird described as omnivorous and opportunistic. Its diet reflects the local abundances of plants and invertebrates. However, comprehensive studies based on both plant and animal materials are lacking to confirm or invalidate this characterization. The diet of the species during the non-breeding season was studied based on the contents of the stomachs of 42 adults collected during 2004, 2006 and 2007 in two regions of eastern Morocco. Taxa were identified to species or genus using a herbarium, a plant epidermis reference collection, an invertebrate reference collection, and an invertebrate fragment reference collection. We analyzed variation in the diet according to sex, region and year. The diet primarily included plant material (66 ± 25% of the dry weight of the stomach contents). The relative proportions of plants and invertebrates did not differ between the sexes but showed variations in space and time. The ingested plant and invertebrate assemblages differed between year and area but not between the sexes. These results suggest that both sexes forage in similar habitats and that their diet reflects spatial and temporal variations in plant and invertebrate availability, as expected for an opportunistic feeder. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Populations of Houbara Bustards have dramatically declined in recent years. Captive breeding and reintroduction programs have had limited success in reviving population numbers and thus new technological solutions involving molecular methods are essential for the long term survival of this species. In this study, we sequenced the 694 bp segment of COI gene of the four specimens of Asian Houbara Bustard (Chlamydotis undulata macqueenii). We also compared these sequences with earlier published barcodes of 11 individuals comprising different families of the orders Gruiformes, Ciconiiformes, Podicipediformes and Crocodylia (out group). The pair-wise sequence comparison showed a total of 254 variable sites across all the 15 sequences from different taxa. Three of the four specimens of Houbara Bustard had an identical sequence of COI gene and one individual showed a single nucleotide difference (G > A transition at position 83). Within the bustard family (Otididae), comparison among the three species (Asian Houbara Bustard, Great Bustard (Otis tarda) and the Little Bustard (Tetrax tetrax)), representing three different genera, showed 116 variable sites. For another family (Rallidae), the intra-family variable sites among the individuals of four different genera were found to be 146. The COI genetic distances among the 15 individuals varied from 0.000 to 0.431. Phylogenetic analysis using 619 bp nucleotide segment of COI clearly discriminated all the species representing different genera, families and orders. All the four specimens of Houbara Bustard formed a single clade and are clearly separated from other two individuals of the same family (Otis tarda and Tetrax tetrax). The nucleotide sequence of partial segment of COI gene effectively discriminated the closely related species. This is the first study reporting the barcodes of Houbara Bustard and would be helpful in future molecular studies, particularly for the conservation of this threatened bird in Saudi Arabia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Asian houbara bustard Chlamydotis macqueenii is a partial migrant of conservation concern found in deserts of central Asia and the Middle East. In the southern part of the species range, resident populations have been greatly fragmented and reduced by sustained human pressure. In the north, birds migrate from breeding grounds between West Kazakhstan and Mongolia to wintering areas in the Middle East and south central Asia. Extensive satellite tracking has shown substantial partitioning in migration routes and wintering grounds, suggesting a longitudinal barrier to present-day gene flow among migrants. In this context, we explored genetic population structure using 17 microsatellite loci and sampling 108 individuals across the range. We identified limited but significant overall differentiation (FCT = 0.045), which was overwhelmingly due to the differentiation of resident Arabian populations, particularly the one from Yemen, relative to the central Asian populations. Population structure within the central Asian group was not detectable with the exception of subtle differentiation of West Kazakh birds on the western flyway, relative to eastern populations. We interpret these patterns as evidence of recent common ancestry in Asia, coupled with a longitudinal barrier to present-day gene flow along the migratory divide, which has yet to translate into genetic divergence. These results provide key parameters for a coherent conservation strategy aimed at preserving genetic diversity and migration routes. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This review brings together the available literature that examines the effect of variations in pigmentation on the water vapour conductance of avian eggshells. Pheasant and Houbara bustard eggs provide some evidence that shell abnormalities can impact upon colour and water vapour conductance. By contrast, data from wild birds suggest that neither the degree of maculation or intensity of background colour impact upon conductance. Those studies that purport to show variation in rates of water loss in eggs with different degrees of pigmentation may have been confounded by variation in natural nesting conditions. This emerging field of research remains very much in its infancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Houbara bustard (Chlamydotis undulata) is a wild seasonal breeding bird populating arid sandy semidesert habitats in North Africa and the Middle East. Its population has declined drastically during the last two decades and it is classified as vulnerable. Captive breeding programmes have, hitherto, been unsuccessful in reviving population numbers and thus radical technological solutions are essential for the long term survival of this species. The purpose of this study was to investigate the use of primordial germ cell-mediated chimera technology to produce viable Houbara bustard offspring. Methodology/Principal Findings: Embryonic gonadal tissue was dissected from Houbara bustard embryos at eight days post-incubation. Subsequently, Houbara tissue containing gonadal primordial germ cells (gPGCs) was injected into White Leghorn chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus) embryos, producing 83/138 surviving male chimeric embryos, of which 35 chimeric roosters reached sexual maturity after 5 months. The incorporation and differentiation of Houbara gPGCs in chimeric chicken testis were assessed by PCR with Houbara-specific primers and 31.3% (5/16) gonads collected from the injected chicken embryos showed the presence of donor Houbara cells. A total of 302 semen samples from 34 chimeric roosters were analyzed and eight were confirmed as germline chimeras. Semen samples from these eight roosters were used to artificially inseminate three female Houbara bustards. Subsequently, 45 Houbara eggs were obtained and incubated, two of which were fertile. One egg hatched as a male live born Houbara; the other was female but died before hatching. Genotyping confirmed that the male chick was a pure-line Houbara derived from a chimeric rooster. Conclusion: This study demonstrates for the first time that Houbara gPGCs can migrate, differentiate and eventually give rise to functional sperm in the chimeric chicken testis. This approach may provide a promising tool for propagation and conservation of endangered avian species that cannot breed in captivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Male attractiveness can have tremendous effects on the fitness of his offspring via good genes, but also via enhanced maternal allocation of resources. Yet the proximate mechanisms influencing differential maternal allocation in relation to male sexiness are poorly known. Here, we studied the importance of visual stimulation for maternal allocation in the Houbara bustard, a vulnerable bird species bred in captivity to support wild populations. Artificial insemination allowed controlling for potential confounding factors, such as a male's territory quality, social interactions or sperm quality/quantity, probably linked to mate attractiveness. We show that artificially inseminated females stimulated by highly displaying males increased their hatching success, owing to increased fertilization success. The females also increased the allocation of maternal androgens in their eggs, leading to an increase of circulating testosterone and growth rate in chicks. Hence, visual stimulation of the females can promote differential maternal allocation and favour offspring fitness. Our results further suggest that using artificial insemination for species conservation without appropriate stimulation of the breeding females probably has negative impacts on their breeding performance and therefore on population viability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Over the last few decades, Asiatic houbara bustard (Chlamydotis macqueenii) has declined in numbers throughout its geographic range. In Iran, houbaras occur in arid and semi-arid deserts, with the highest population densities in the central steppes. Wintering habitat selection of houbara bustards was studied from December 2006 to March 2007 in Harat, central Iran. To compare houbara population densities in different habitats within the study area, the number of houbara fecal pellets were quantified within strip transects in two habitat types. Houbara population density was higher in bush-steppe habitat, which had lower plant height and greater vegetation cover, than shrub-steppe. In contrast, houbaras selected sites within each habitat where vegetation cover was significantly lower compared with control sites. Distance to farmlands and plant species richness were also important determinants of the habitat use of bustards in the study area. We suggest that agricultural development strategies may influence the abundance of local populations of houbara in their wintering grounds. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Highly pathogenic influenza virus (HPAIV) H5N1 has caused mortality and morbidity in many species of domestic and wild bird. The Houbara bustard (Chlamydotis undulata macqueenii) is a solitary bird that inhabits semi-desert regions. It is known to be susceptible to avianpox, avian paramyxovirus type 1, and low-pathogenicity avian influenza H9N2. We report an outbreak of H5N1 HPAIV in Houbara bustards, which were introduced into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for falconry purposes. Ninety-three per cent mortality (38 out of 41 birds) in the infected Houbara bustard flock and about 62.5% mortality (10 out of 16 birds) in falcons that came in contact with these birds were observed. Pooled cloacal and tracheal swabs from Houbara bustards as well as visceral organ homogenates collected in Houbara bustards and falcons were tested by real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction, and virus isolation was attempted in specific pathogen free hens' eggs. The viruses isolated were characterized as HPAIV H5N1. Phylogenetic analysis of the haemagglutinating and Neuraminidase (NA) genes revealed that the viruses isolated from Houbara bustards and falcons were closely related to each other and to Kuwaiti H5N1 strains isolated in 2007. Interestingly, they were genetically distinguishable from the co-circulating A/H5N1 viruses in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia causing outbreaks in domestic birds. This case emphasizes the need for surveillance of this endangered species in its natural habitat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Habitat selection is a hierarchical process where the distribution of individuals is constrained by environmental factors acting from the landscape scale to specific microhabitats such as breeding sites. However, interactions between conspecifics might greatly influence bird distribution and habitat use, especially in lekking birds. In the lekking Houbara bustard Chlamydotis undulata undulata, we investigated the respective role of environmental and social constraints on the distribution of nests and display sites. We measured environmental variables around 69 nests and 70 display sites at different spatial scales: the landscape, the breeding range, and the display and nest site scale. The variables were compared to those measured at 50 random plots to determine whether environmental features are actively selected. Social variables were included by studying spatial relationships between displaying male density, nests and female movements throughout the year. At the landscape scale, human presence acted as a limiting factor for the establishment of nest and display sites. At the breeding range scale, habitat requirements differed between sexes. Breeding females used a heterogeneous complex of habitats provided by the network of wadis (water courses) crossing the reg (gravel plain) covered by tall perennial plants. In contrast, display males looked for conspicuousness and courtship ability by selecting the reg with short perennials, and used temporarily flooded areas for feeding. Males aggregated on traditional display site where they experienced the greatest female density. This result supported the hotspot model in the evolution of leks in the Houbara bustard. It underlies an overriding effect of female attraction on male settlement in the individual habitat selection process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Morocco we tested the consistency between an a priori habitat classification based on topography, hydrology, vegetation structure and composition, and an a posteriori classification based on arthropod assemblages, in a plain supporting wild endangered Houbara Bustards. According to vegetation structure, we defined seven a priori habitats that differed significantly in perennial cover and height. A multivariate multiple regression analysis showed a significant relationship between arthropod assemblages and vegetation structure. Canonical Analyses of Principal Coordinates, conducted simultaneously on direct searches of arthropods and trapping data, showed significant differences between assemblages in both cases, and produced two similar constrained ordinations of six a posteriori habitats: esparto grass (Stipa tenacissima), temporarily flooded areas, fields, "reg" with short perennials, "reg" with tall perennials and wadis. The two sampling methods reflected a dominance of ants and beetles. Arthropod biomasses increased significantly in spring and then decreased significantly in summer for beetles, and in autumn for ants. No strong differences appeared between habitats within seasons, especially in spring, indicating a uniform distribution of food resources during the Houbara breeding season. The "reg" with short perennials had the highest ant biomass in summer. This "reg" and fields also supported the highest arthropod biomass in autumn. Variation in arthropod biomass was a pertinent factor that should be integrated into Houbara habitat selection studies. The definition of habitat availability based on easily identifiable landscape units, combined with empirical tests on arthropod communities provided an accurate classification for habitat selection studies and conservation planning. In Morocco we tested the consistency between an a priori habitat classification based on topography, hydrology, vegetation structure and composition, and an a posteriori classification based on arthropod assemblages, in a plain supporting wild endangered Houbara Bustards. According to vegetation structure, we defined seven a priori habitats that differed significantly in perennial cover and height. A multivariate multiple regression analysis showed a significant relationship between arthropod assemblages and vegetation structure. Canonical Analyses of Principal Coordinates, conducted simultaneously on direct searches of arthropods and trapping data, showed significant differences between assemblages in both cases, and produced two similar constrained ordinations of six a posteriori habitats: esparto grass (Stipa tenacissima), temporarily flooded areas, fields, "reg" with short perennials, "reg" with tall perennials and wadis. The two sampling methods reflected a dominance of ants and beetles. Arthropod biomasses increased significantly in spring and then decreased significantly in summer for beetles, and in autumn for ants. No strong differences appeared between habitats within seasons, especially in spring, indicating a uniform distribution of food resources during the Houbara breeding season. The "reg" with short perennials had the highest ant biomass in summer. This "reg" and fields also supported the highest arthropod biomass in autumn. Variation in arthropod biomass was a pertinent factor that should be integrated into Houbara habitat selection studies. The definition of habitat availability based on easily identifiable landscape units, combined with empirical tests on arthropod communities provided an accurate classification for habitat selection studies and conservation planning.… [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four adult male Asian Houbara Bustards Chlamydotis macqueenii were caught on their breeding grounds in the Gobi Desert of China and tracked by satellite from July 2000 for from 5 months to > 3.5 years. Wintering areas were identified for two individuals, one on the Turkmenistan/Uzbekistan border in the Amur-Darya valley, the second at the Iran/Turkmenistan border. One individual used the same wintering and breeding areas for three consecutive years. Overall departure dates from breeding grounds ranged from 29 September to 14 October, with arrival on wintering quarters from 23 October to 7 November. Birds left their wintering grounds between 2 and 21 March and reached their breeding areas between 11 and 21 April. The mean overall migration distance was 3935 km (sd = ± 229, n = 9). Houbara Bustards mainly followed steppe areas to migrate avoiding the highest elevations of the Himalayan massif and travelling 267 km/day on average. Pre-breeding migration lasted longer than post-breeding and included more and longer stopovers. The Taukum Desert and Jungar Basin are critical areas for migration of eastern Houbara populations. Breeding range, used for 5.5 months, was 274 km2 (sd = ± 53, n = 4), whereas wintering range, used for around 4 months a year, was 76 km2 (sd = ± 22, n = 3). Range use pattern appeared similar for Asian Houbara released in central Saudi Arabia, but differed from the African Houbara Bustard. More investigations are required to determine the effects of food availability and meteorological conditions on the migration pattern and on the use of stopovers by Asian Houbara Bustards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The distribution and global habitat association of the North African houbara bustard (Chlamydotis undulata sensu stricto) were studied for the first time in a large semi-arid steppe-land region in eastern Morocco. The study area has been protected from hunting for 6 years, but was still under significant pressure from grazing activities. Houbara distribution was assessed using point count surveys conducted during the 2002 breeding season and compared to natural- and human-related predictors. The hierarchy and quantification of influences was evaluated using a discriminant function analysis. Micro-topography first drove houbara bustard distribution, since birds were usually found in open flat tracts allowing visibility over a long distance for the prevention of potential predator approaches, but also for breeding males to be seen by conspecifics. 'Flooding surfaces' presenting concealment possibilities, as well as readily available food resources, were secondly sought. Proximity to wells was a surrogate to human presence and pastoral activity influences and appeared to affect houbara bustard distribution. The weight of human disturbance on houbara distribution is highlighted and it is recommended that this should be considered in conservation plans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Relative abundance and density estimates of Asian houbara were assessed during the breeding season in two breeding grounds of migrant populations (China and south Kazakhstan) and in one breeding ground of a resident population (Oman), between 1998 and 2002. For the study period, the relative abundance was from 0.004 to 0.06 individual per km driven and density estimates varied from 0.01 to 0.2 houbara per km2. Relative abundance and density of houbara declined by 63% and 69%, respectively in China, by 60% and 49%, respectively in Kazakhstan and by 50% and 75%, respectively in Oman. Overall, an average of 27–30% annual decline in both relative abundance and density was observed for the three regions. Despite being legally a strictly protected species in China, Kazakhstan and Oman, houbara are heavily hunted and poached on all their migration routes and wintering grounds. The current levels of hunting and poaching are not sustainable and without the immediate agreement and implementation of international conservation measures, the Asian houbara may face extinction in the wild in the foreseeable future. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This paper presents observations of Houbara BustardChlamydotis undulata undulatahome-range, in the semi-desert steppe of eastern Morocco. Home-ranges were calculated from radiotagged birds using the fixed kernel method (LSCV). The mean annual home-range of males (17 km2) was smaller than that of females (146 km2;P < 0.001). The majority of male home-ranges had a unimodal distribution (86%), whereas 67% of female home-ranges were multimodal. Consequently, the amplitude of female movements was larger (mean: 44 km/13 km;P < 0.002). In spring, male home-ranges decreased in size around display sites (8 km2) and many of them overlapped considerably. Display sites show an aggregative distribution (P < 0.001) and a single female reproductive range may contain the display sites of several males. The data fulfil the definition of an exploded lek social structure. In our study,C. u. undulataappears to be sedentary with relatively limited home-ranges. Successive years of fidelity to home-ranges indicate that adults are not nomadic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Display-site selection by houbara bustards was studied in Mori, Xinjiang, China during the breeding seasons from April to June 2000. Most of the habitats chosen for displaying were short sub-shrubby and open areas close to high shrub patches. The displaying males clearly prefer low covered areas and avoid densely covered and high vegetation sites. The vegetation density and number of plant species at display sites were significantly lower from that at randomly selected sites. The average distance to the closest shrub patch was significantly shorter at display sites than at random sites. Plant species richness, vegetative density, vegetative cover and distance to the shrub patches are possibly the most important factors that determined the display-sites selection of houbara bustard. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Investigates the influence of climate, age and egg-laying experience on reproductive performance of a flock of captive houbara bustards in Saudi Arabia. Influence of winter temperatures on reproduction; Comparison between first-time egg-layers and females with previous egg-laying experience.

Investigates the physiological responses of Houbara bustards, Chlamydotis macquenii, to high ambient temperature. Determination of resting metabolic rate; Minimization of dry heat gain from the environment; Comparison of body composition between wild-caught and captive-reared birds.

There is a large illegal trade in trapped houbara bustards Chlamydotis undulata macqueenii, which are smuggled into the Middle East for falconry. Mortality is high and is associated with poor transport conditions, malnutrition, overcrowding and exposure to multiple infectious diseases, in particular aspergillosis, avian pox and paramyxovirus type 1 virus. Other pathogens include Salmonella sp., Pseudomonas sp., Trichomonas sp., intestinal endoparasites, avian leucosis, reovirus, adenovirus, paramyxovirus type 2 and Chlamydia sp. Various regional initiatives have been initiated to confiscate and rehabilitate illegally trapped birds. This paper reviews the causes of morbidity and mortality seen in illegally traded houbara bustards and provides health recommendations for those involved in rehabilitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies the migration and behavioral ecology of houbara bustard or Chlamydotis undulata, by adapting different capture methods for use during the breeding season. Description of the study area; Capture methods for displaying males, nesting females and immatures or non-breeding males and females; Results of the study; Conclusions.

The in-vitro activity of enrofloxacin against 117 strains of bacteria isolated from bustards was determined. Minimum inhibitory concentrations for 72% of the Proteus spp., E. coli, Salmonella spp. and Klebsiella spp. (n = 61) and for 48% of the Streptococci spp. and Staphylococci spp. (n = 31) were <= 0.5 μ g/mL. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 76% of Pseudomonas spp. (n = 25) was < 2 μg/mL. Fourteen strains were resistant to concentrations > 128 μg/mL. The elimination half-lives (t½ elim β) (mean± SEM) of 10 mg/kg enrofloxacin in eight houbara bustards (Chlamydotis undulata) were 6.80± 0.79, 6.39± 1.49 and 5.63± 0.54 h after oral (p.o.), intramuscular (i.m.) and intravenous (i.v.) administration, respectively. Enrofloxacin was rapidly absorbed from the bustard gastro-intestinal tract and maximum plasma concentrations of 1.84± 0.16 μg/mL were achieved after 0.66± 0.05 h. Maximum plasma concentration after i.m. administration of 10 mg/kg was 2.75± 0.11 μg/mL at 1.72± 0.19 h. Maximum plasma concentration after i.m. administration of 15 mg/kg in two birds was 4.86 μg/mL. Bioavailability was 97.3± 13.7% and 62.7± 11.1% after i.m. and oral administration, respectively. Plasma concentrations of enrofloxacin >= 0.5 μg/mL were maintained for at least 12 h for all routes at 10 mg/kg and for 24 h after i.m. administration at 15 mg/kg. Plasma enrofloxacin concentrations were monitored during the first 3 days of treatment in five houbara bustards and kori bustards (Ardeotis kori) with bacterial infections receiving a single daily i.m. injection of 10 mg/kg for 3 days. The mean plasma enrofloxacin concentrations in the clinical cases at 27 and 51 h (3.69 and 3.86 μg/mL) and at 48 h (0.70 μg/mL) were significantly higher compared with the 3 h and 24 h time intervals from clinically normal birds. The maximum plasma concentration (Cmax)/MIC ratio was ranked i.v. (10/mg/kg) > i.m. (15 mg/kg) > i.m. (10 mg/kg) > oral (10 mg/kg), but it was only higher than 8:1 for i.v and i.m. administrations of enrofloxacin at 10 mg/kg and 15 mg/kg, respectively, against a low MIC (0.5 μg/mL). A dosage regimen of 10 mg/kg repeated every 12 h, or 15 mg/kg repeated every 24 h, would be expected to give blood concentrations above 0.5 μg/mL and hence provide therapeutic response in the bustard against a wide range of bacterial infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article offers information on Asian houbara bustard (Chlamydotis macqueenii) also called Tiloor in Pakistan, which is listed vulnerable in the International Union for the Conservation of Nature. Topics include uncontrolled annual killing of Tiloor in Pakistan by royal Arabs, need of restoration and breeding programmes, and need for government to ban hunting.

Embryonic gonadal tissue was dissected individually from Houbara bustard embryos at eight days post-incubation. Houbara bustard gonadal cells containing gonadal primordial germ cells (gPGCs) were injected into the blood stream of White Leghorn chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus) embryos, producing 83 y 138 surviving male chimeric embryos, of which 35 chimeric roosters reached sexual maturity after 5 months. The incorporation and differentiation of Houbara bustard PGCs in chimeric chicken testis were assessed by PCR with Houbara bustard species-specific primers and 31.3% (5 y 16) gonads collected from the injected chicken embryos showed the presence of donor Houbara bustard cells. A total of 302 semen samples from 34 chimeric roosters were analyzed and eight were confirmed as germ line chimeras. Semen samples from these eight roosters were used to artificially inseminate three female Houbara bustards. Subsequently, 45 Houbara bustard eggs were obtained and incubated, two of which were fertile. One egg hatched as a male live born Houbara bustard and the other was female but died before hatching. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A letter to the editor is presented stating the Supreme Court of Pakistan's lift a ban on hunting Houbara bustards in January 2016, and mentions the International Union for Conservation of Nature considers hunting and falconry to be the primary cause of diminishing Houbara population.

The article discusses the verdict of Pakistan Supreme Court to protect Houbara from hunting by Arab falconers by cancelling hunting licenses and permission by the federal government.

The article reports on the over-hunting of Houbara Bustards Chlamydotis macqueenii in Iraq.

The article reports that in celebration of the 50th anniversary of the discovery of the Houbara, Macqueen's Bustard Chlamydotis macqueenii at Hinton, Suffolk in England on November 21, 1962, a get-together was arranged by the same roadside field on November 21, 2012.

The article reports that the elusive Asian houbara bustard or Chlamydotis undulata macqueenii, which is a crane-like bird, is in danger of becoming extinct because of poaching and falconers. Bird experts are conducting talks with governments for the creation of protected areas in key nations where the bird winters or breeds in an effort to save the bird that nests in the dry steppe and open desert.